Selahattin Bilgen, CEO of iGA Istanbul Airport, gave an exclusive interview to Aviation 360, discussing the airport’s architecture, operational achievements, and future plans. Bilgen shared how iGA Istanbul Airport has successfully blended a range of strategic and innovative elements, from design to technology, passenger experience to sustainability goals, making it the world’s highest capacity airport.
Cultural Richness and Modern Architecture Unite
iGA Istanbul Airport is not only a transportation hub but also a structure that merges Turkey’s cultural identity with modern architecture. When describing the design of the airport, Bilgen emphasized the importance of incorporating elements that reflect Turkey’s rich heritage: “The terminal’s design elegantly combines traditional Turkish motifs with contemporary aesthetics. In particular, the sunlight entering the terminal intentionally forms a crescent shape as a salute to the symbol of Ottoman authority and the modern emblem of the Turkish Republic.”
Bilgen also highlighted that Turkey’s largest airport museum is located at iGA Istanbul Airport, offering travelers a journey through Turkey’s ancient treasures. “In our 1,000 square meter museum space, over 300 artifacts from 29 different museums are on display. This turns our airport not only into a travel point but also into a cultural experience,” he said.
High Capacity and Efficiency with the Triple Runway System
One of the key elements of Istanbul Airport’s operational success is its triple runway system. Bilgen explained how this system enhances capacity and efficiency: “The triple runway system is not just about having more runways; it’s also about how these runways work in harmony. This system will allow us to increase capacity to about 90 flights per hour.”
Bilgen also pointed out the environmental benefits of the efficiency this system provides: “By reducing the time planes spend taxiing, we can decrease fuel consumption, which directly helps reduce emissions and aligns with our sustainability goals.”
Technological Innovations in Passenger Experience
iGA Istanbul Airport always prioritizes passenger comfort and is implementing a range of innovative applications to perfect the travel experience through digital solutions. Bilgen stated that passengers benefit from advanced technologies throughout their time at the airport, from arrival to boarding: “With digital solutions such as biometric scanning, self-check-in kiosks, and the iGA App, we make the time passengers spend at the airport more efficient. We also offer a soothing environment for stressed travelers with our Therapy Dog Project.”
iGA Istanbul Airport is also reshaping travel retail. The 55,000 square meter duty-free shopping area hosts not only top-tier brands but also local Turkish products. Bilgen discussed technologies that make the shopping experience even more exciting, saying, “From ‘Magic Mirror’ systems to mobile payment points, shopping has been seamlessly integrated with technology.”
Accessibility and Inclusion
For iGA Istanbul Airport, accessibility is not only a legal requirement but also a responsibility. Bilgen shared their innovations in this area: “With services like audio guidance systems and tactile pathways for visually impaired passengers, we ensure that everyone can travel independently. Additionally, with the ‘Sunflower Lanyard’ program, we provide extra support to passengers with invisible disabilities.”
Sustainability and Green Goals
Sustainability is at the core of iGA Istanbul Airport’s strategy. Bilgen stated that they aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050: “We are transitioning to electric vehicles and reducing emissions from waste by 50%. Additionally, 30% of our water is sourced from recycled water.” iGA is taking its environmentally-friendly operations further with projects such as solar power plants and hydrogen fuel infrastructure.
The Airport of the Future: Technology and Human-Centered
Finally, Bilgen shared his thoughts on the future of airports: “The airport of the future will be a technology-driven, human-centered ecosystem that improves every traveler’s journey.” With this vision, iGA Istanbul Airport will continue to play a leading role in the global aviation sector.
To read the full exclusive interview with iGA Istanbul Airport CEO Selahattin Bilgen, click here:
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